The Enugu State government has mandated that all mineral title holders must commence coal mining operations by December. This directive emerged from a recent meeting between the state’s Mineral Resources and Environmental Management Committee (MIREMCO) and the title holders.
The goal is to re-establish Enugu State as the premier coal mining hub in the former Eastern Region of Nigeria. To support this initiative, MIREMCO is committed to assisting title holders in overcoming any operational challenges.
A statement from the governor’s media office highlighted the importance of further stakeholder meetings to identify and address sector challenges, promoting effective and inclusive mining practices.
MIREMCO emphasized the need to educate host communities about its objectives and foster cooperation to minimize disruptions. Transparency and accountability are also priorities, with the committee planning to request directories of all mineral titles in Enugu State from the Mining Cadastre Office (MCO).
The committee is determined to activate all mineral titles and drive economic growth in the sector, aiming for full operational status by the end of 2024.
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Mr. Samuel Okoro, Chairman of MIREMCO and Special Adviser to the Governor on Solid Minerals, expressed gratitude to the state governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake. He assured compliance with all relevant regulations and standards, while encouraging title holders to collaborate for optimal results.
“We appreciate the visionary leadership of Governor Mbah and Minister Alake. We are committed to ensuring their legacies are upheld in the solid minerals sector,” Okoro stated.
The state government’s proactive stance underscores its commitment to revitalizing the coal mining industry and fostering economic development in Enugu State.